The Stelae of Copán – An Evolution of Art & Religion

Altar N

The Altar for Stela N is a quite typically zoomorphic beast. In one direction (to the right in this image) we can see a beastly snout and teeth protruding from the shell and in the other direction (to the left) a skeletal head looks out. This Altar presumably dates to the same period as Stela N, which was erected by K’ak’ Yipyaj Chan K’awiil (otherwise known as Smoke Shell) in the year 761AD (click here to read about the stelae of Copan).

© Robin Heyworth – Photo taken 9th February 2002

Altar to Stela N at Copan